Once the largest medieval priory in Ireland, Athassel offers a maze of old buildings you can freely explore. The site is relatively unvisited except for the occasional family on a picnic or ruin enthusiast, which is especially surprising considering its size and proximity to the Rock of Cashel. A visit here will require climbing stiles built into the walls and gates.

Mindie is the author of several books and is currently working on “Thin Places: Celtic Doorways to the Otherworld” which will focus on mystical sites in Ireland. She covers many places in Ireland where “this world meets the eternal world” at www.thinplaces.net.Mindie’s Tips | Website